Poodle with Dog Jaw Quiver or Chatter

by Wendy

I have an 8 year old toy poodle. About 2 weeks ago I noticed that every time she would lick her mouth, regardless of food, her lower jaw would quiver. It hasn't stopped and the vet has no idea what it is. They tell me she seems fine. Her teeth are in good condition but her breath is terrible. They didn't find any tumors or other problems in her mouth. She acts the same, and she seems ok, but this is something abnormal for her.

Please help me if you can! She is my baby and she means the world to me! If I need to do something else I will.

I just need someone to tell me they've seen this before and what it is.

Vet Suggestion Regarding Dog Jaw Quiver or Chatter

Hi Wendy,

I suspect that your dog is suffering from oral pain. The “jaw quiver” that you describe is a pretty classic symptom (we sometimes call it a “chatter”). You mentioned her terrible breath, this certainly fits with some type of oral disease as well.

You mentioned that her teeth are in good condition, but this is really impossible to determine without her being anesthetized for a full oral exam and dental x-rays. She may have disease affecting the parts of her teeth or jaw that are covered by her gums, or in a part of her mouth that can’t be well-examined in an awake dog.

If your veterinarian is not able to perform these services, I recommend you seek a consultation with a veterinary dentist. He or she should be able to diagnose the cause of her jaw quiver and bad breath and treat it appropriately.

Best of luck,

Jennifer Coates, DVM